The artistry of French lace met the promise of American fashion’s next generation at the inaugural Solstiss-Academy Award Soirée, held last Friday at Villa Albertine on Fifth Avenue. It serves as the home of the Cultural Services of the French Embassy.
The evening’s highlight: a runway presentation featuring the work of students from 10 leading fashion schools, each interpreting traditional French lace and haute couture fabrics that were provided by Solstiss-Academy through a distinctly individual creative lens.
The presentation culminated with CFDA member Vera Wang bestowing the inaugural Solstiss-Academy Award upon Nicole Alfonso of Instituto Marangoni, recognizing her as America’s Top Fashion Student for her elegant creation.
More than 200 guests gathered for the occasion, which underscored the importance of nurturing emerging talent while honoring the rich heritage of French craftsmanship and its enduring influence on American fashion.
Among the guests were Frederick Anderson, Bonnie Young, Epperson, Nicole Fischelis, Alva Chinn, and Rebecca Moses.
François Damide, President and CEO of Solstiss Inc., said, “I was very touched and grateful for the overwhelming support from the fashion industry for the Solstiss-Academy, and to see the creations of the Class of 2026 on the runway.”
